It’s either creatures in the Everglades (mosquitoes, alligators, the Skunk Ape) or creature comforts in the Keys. Call us domesticated; we vote for the latter.
REST
Take a load off at Hawks Cay Resort (61 Hawks Cay Boulevard, MM 61, Duck Key; 305-743-7000) while the kids (ages 5-12) spend the day at Camp Hawk (pool games, snorkeling, and crafts). Or stay at Ocean Key Resort & Spa (Zero Duval Street, Key West; 305-296-7701), just a short walk from the Key West Aquarium and Mallory Square.
PLAY
Warm, shallow water and a nature center make Bahia Honda State Park a favorite for fams (MM 37, Bahia Honda Key; 305-872-2353). Observe up to 60 butterfly species at The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory (1316 Duval Street, Key West; 305-296-2988). Check out famous sights on The Southernmost Scavenger Hunt (305-292-9994; Friday-Sunday, noon).
NOURISH
Get a taste of the Keys with house-smoked fish dip at The Fish House (102401 Overseas Highway, MM 102.4, Key Largo; 305-451-4665) or nosh on coconut shrimp at Square Grouper (22658 Overseas Highway, MM 22.5, Cudjoe Key; 305-745-8880). End the day at Flamingo Crossing with mango ice cream (1107 Duval Street, Key West; 305-296-6124).
Always the key to a successful trip.
DESIGN
Kids Club
What: Kids paint custom visors for pops.
Why: Cap off the morning.
When: Sat., 9-10 a.m.
Where: Whole Foods Market, 21105 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura (305-933-1543).
TWIRL
Drop-in Ballet Classes
What: Former Miami City Ballet dancer teaches movement and basic ballet skills to 2-4 year olds.
Why: Tu-tu cute.
When: Sat., 10-10:45 a.m.
Where: Tula and Tupi, 3133 Commodore Plaza, Coconut Grove (305-441-2153).
EXPLORE
Come Aboard the S.S. Caribbean
What: The story of the islands presented for curious youngsters.
Why: The rest is history.
When: Sat., 2-4 p.m.
Where: Historical Museum of Southern Florida, 101 W. Flagler Ave. (305-375-1492).